What to Bring to Inpatient Rehab
Get in touchInpatient and outpatient rehab are treatment options for drug addiction, and the NHS offers treatment for drug addiction.
A GP is a good starting point for treatment and can offer treatment or refer patients to local drug services.
During the first appointment, patients discuss their drug use, personal circumstances, and treatment options.
The treatment plan is personalised and may include talking therapies and medication.
A keyworker supports the patient throughout the treatment, and the NHS may provide referrals for private drug treatment, which can be expensive.
Patients in rehabilitation are required to get up and get dressed for therapy every day, and they should bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and other personal items.
Family members are responsible for the patient's personal laundry.
Clothing suggestions include:
Soft-soled shoes or athletic shoes with nonskid soles
Several sets of comfortable athletic clothing
Typical clothing worn at home
Underwear
Socks
Pyjamas
A robe and slippers with tread or traction.
Toiletries, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, and necessary medications, may be provided, but it's best to bring your own, avoiding any containing alcohol.
Other items to bring include:
Dentures
Hearing aids
Glasses
Customised equipment such as a wheelchair or any assistive devices such as a cane or walker
The name and phone number of the primary care physician
A list of any medicines currently taken
Any prescription plan identification cards
A living will or advance directives if applicable
Necessary jewellery
An alarm clock
Prescription medication in original packaging
Stamps and envelopes
Pictures of loved ones.
Patients may also consider bringing additional for their "off time":
A small amount of cash
Phone numbers of relatives and friends
A small pad of paper and a pen
Laptop computer to use the free wireless Internet service
Things That Should Not Be Brought to Rehab
As well as recommending things to bring on your stay, we have also made a list of things that should not be brought to rehab.
These include:
Perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions due to allergies of other patients and staff
Valuables
Rehab centres have strict policies on what can be brought to treatment, and most centres offer a recommended packing checklist and a list of prohibited items.
Treatment centres allow necessities, but policies on extra items vary by centre.
Upon arrival, bags will be inspected for safety and prohibited items, and some centres will catalogue what is brought to ensure nothing is left behind.
Rehab facilities have guidelines for allowed and prohibited items, such as drugs, alcohol, weapons, and certain foods, and patients should review these guidelines before packing and avoid bringing any items that could hinder their treatment or endanger themselves or others.
Introduction to Inpatient Rehab
Entering an inpatient rehab program can be an overwhelming experience for those struggling with substance addiction. It is crucial to prepare mentally and physically for what lies ahead.
In this section, we will explore what you can expect as you begin your journey to recovery, including the initial stages of treatment for drug addiction.
Starting Treatment for Drug Addiction
When treating drug addiction, inpatient rehab is a great option. It offers 24/7 care and supervision. Plus, it keeps individuals away from their usual environment and triggers.
Pack comfortable clothing for physical activities such as yoga or exercise. Also, bring warmer clothing for outdoor activities during cooler months. But, no clothing with drug use or offensive language. Toiletries and personal items must be free of alcohol and cannot contain substances that can be abused.
Electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets may be allowed. It depends on the facility's rules. Valuables should stay at home. Money and other financial items must be managed by the rehab facility staff.
Prohibited items usually include drugs, alcohol, weapons, and threatening materials. The rules may vary between facilities.
Treating drug addiction is an important part of recovery. Packing the right items can make the rehab experience more comfortable and successful. Rehab facilities will provide ample support towards a life without addiction.
What to Bring to Inpatient Rehab
Are you planning to check into an inpatient rehab facility? Packing the right items can make your stay more comfortable and successful.
In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to bring to inpatient rehab, from clothing recommendations and restrictions to toiletries and personal items.
Electronic devices and valuable items are often not permitted in inpatient rehab facilities for safety and security reasons. Please check with the facility before bringing any such items.
Clothing Restrictions and Recommendations
When attending inpatient rehab, be aware of clothing restrictions and recommendations. Rehab centres often have dress codes to promote a distraction-free environment.
Strict guidelines may forbid revealing clothing or garments with logos or graphics. Opt for comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
When packing, consider sweatpants, t-shirts, shorts, and knee-length skirts.
Have enough clean clothing for the whole stay. Bring comfortable shoes and athletic wear. Certain types of footwear may be prohibited for safety reasons, like high-heeled shoes or flip-flops. Bring weather-appropriate apparel, like jackets or raincoats.
Toiletries are important, but avoid using unconventional shampoo scents. They may not be suitable for inpatient rehab settings.
Toiletries and Personal Items
Preparing for an inpatient rehab stay? Ensure a comfortable experience by packing the right toiletries and personal items.
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, soap - these are essential hygiene products.
Don't forget towels and feminine hygiene products too! Plus, pack enough clothes, including underwear and socks. Detergent is also suggested in case laundry facilities are available.
Razors may be allowed, but check with staff first. No aerosol sprays, including hairspray or perfume, as they can trigger asthma attacks or allergies.
Avoid any magazines or materials containing drug references.
Check with staff regarding any item to be brought in or prohibited items. Select the right toiletries and personal items - this will make sure you have everything needed during your stay without being weighed down.
Electronic Devices, Activities, and Valuables
When packing for inpatient rehab, consider what electronic devices, activities, and valuables are allowed. To avoid any complications, create a table to organise this information.
Electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones are generally allowed.
Though, there may be restrictions. Journaling and reading can be done, plus some areas offer fitness equipment or outdoor activities. Valuables like jewellery and money are not recommended.
Different facilities may have different policies. Therefore, check with your facility before attending. Depending on your stay and preference, decide on what to check into rehab.
Finally, pack accordingly and avoid prohibited items. Follow the guidelines for a successful recovery.
Allowed Items | Restricted Items |
|---|---|
Electronic Devices: Laptops, tablets, smartphones | Jewellery |
Reading and journaling materials | Valuables like money |
Fitness equipment and outdoor activities (in designated areas) | Certain medications |
Guidelines for Allowed and Prohibited Items in Rehab
Inpatient rehab facilities have rules for what is allowed and what is not. These rules help keep patients safe and make sure their treatment works. Patients must know the rules to prevent any trouble or harm.
Allowed items usually include things like hygiene products, comfortable clothing, and ID. Patients can bring books and other reading materials as long as they are not bad for recovery.
Drugs, alcohol, weapons, and electronics with cameras or internet access are not allowed.
They could cause relapse or be dangerous for patients and staff. Some items, like prescribed meds, religious things, or items related to hobbies or support groups, may be allowed if the patient's treatment team says so.
Patients need to follow the rules throughout their treatment for a safe environment. Each rehab facility may have different rules, so patients should learn about them before entering.
John found out how important it is to follow the rules when he brought in a prohibited item. He saw that the rules were there to help him and he finished his treatment by following them.
Five Facts About What to Bring to Inpatient Rehab:
✅ Inpatient rehab centres have strict policies on what can be brought, and most provide a recommended packing checklist and a list of prohibited items. (Source: Addiction Centre)
✅ Patients in rehabilitation are required to get up and get dressed for therapy every day, so comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and personal items are recommended. (Source: UPMC)
✅ Clothing restrictions are usually placed in rehab, so it's important not to over-pack. Seven days' worth of comfortable and easy-to-wash clothing appropriate for the weather is sufficient. Also, clothing with drug-related references or offensive language should be avoided. (Source: BlueCrest Recovery, The Recovery Village)
✅ Recommended items to bring include personal hygiene products, any necessary medications in their original packaging, basic unopened makeup essentials, pictures of loved ones, and a list of important contacts. (Source: The Recovery Village)
✅ Valuables, perfumes, colognes, scented lotions, and items containing alcohol should not be brought to rehab. (Source: The Recovery Village)
FAQs about What To Bring To Inpatient Rehab
What should I pack when going to rehab?
The most important things to pack when going to rehab include:
Clothes
Underwear, socks, pyjamas
Feminine Hygiene products
Soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner
Toothbrush, toothpaste
Hairbrush
Deodorant
Prescription medications if required
Glasses / hearing aids / dentures
Can the NHS Help with Addiction?
If you're seeking treatment for drug addiction, the NHS provides several options for getting help.
Your GP is a good starting point and can either offer treatment or refer you to a local drug service.
Are There Any Restrictions When Packing for Rehab?
There are some restrictions when it comes to what you can bring to inpatient rehab.
When packing for addiction rehab, it's important to remember that clothing restrictions are usually placed in rehab, so it's important not to over-pack.
Bring comfortable clothing that's easy to wash and appropriate for the weather, and avoid bringing any clothing that represents or implies drug abuse.
Recommended clothing items include comfortable athletic wear, soft-soled or nonskid shoes, pajamas, a bathrobe, a jacket, a hat, socks, and undergarments.
Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, and any required medications should also be brought, though check for alcohol content first.
Electronic devices may or may not be allowed, so be sure to check with the facility beforehand. Recommended items to bring include a book, a journal, and any necessary paperwork.
Avoid bringing anything expensive or anything with alcohol or scents.
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